Words of Hope

As we gathered for worship this weekend, the news from Newtown, Connecticut weighed on our hearts. Our prayers continue for the families and community. A number of my colleagues and I discussed how best to address this in our churches this weekend. I paused and considered the readings and the music already set for the services, and was struck by how the words of Advent speak to us in this time. The words of scripture and the hymns all remind us of the need for God's indwelling in our lives and in our world. The message of Advent is the message we long to hear. We are broken people. We live in a broken world. We need a savior. Amen. Come, Lord Jesus.

At three of our services this weekend, the worship centered on Advent hymns and songs from around the world. The readings from Isaiah, as well as the words of the angel Gabriel to Mary, and the song of joy on the lips of John the Baptist's father, Zechariah together with the music shared all focused on the coming of Jesus, our Savior. At the close of the service we shared these words, written by organist and choir director John Benjamin.

After centuries of waiting for the Promised One, God’s Chosen People at last heard the prophet calling, “Prepare the way of the Lord!” As Christians everywhere prepare their hearts once again to celebrate Jesus’ birth, we, too, await the coming of the Messiah – Christ’s promised return. Still, we know there are people of many nations who have never heard God’s word, experienced the grace of Jesus Christ, felt the comfort of the Holy Spirit.

We have a mission: to reach those who are longing – yearning – to feel the presence of God in their lives. If you are one of those people, know that you are loved, know that you are cared for, know that you are valued beyond measure. Know that God sent Jesus to be the light shining in the darkness, the hope of the nations, Emmanuel – God with us! Amen. Come, Lord Jesus.